#WHO #Analgesic #Ladder (3-Step Model)
Key Terms:
Non-opioid: Basic analgesics (e.g., paracetamol, NSAIDs).
Weak opioid: Lower potency opioids (e.g., codeine, tramadol).
Strong opioid: High potency opioids (e.g., morphine).
Adjuvant: Co-analgesics for neuropathic pain or symptom control (e.g., antidepressants, anticonvulsants, steroids).
📌 Principles of the WHO Ladder:
By the mouth – Use oral medications whenever possible.
By the clock – Give at regular intervals (not PRN) to maintain pain control.
By the ladder – Start at the step that matches the patient's pain severity.
Tailor to the individual – Adjust for effectiveness and side effects.
Monitor and reassess – Pain control should be evaluated regularly.
When to use adjuvants:
Neuropathic pain (e.g., gabapentin, amitriptyline)
Bone pain (e.g., NSAIDs, bisphosphonates)
Inflammation (e.g., corticosteroids)
Key Terms:
Non-opioid: Basic analgesics (e.g., paracetamol, NSAIDs).
Weak opioid: Lower potency opioids (e.g., codeine, tramadol).
Strong opioid: High potency opioids (e.g., morphine).
Adjuvant: Co-analgesics for neuropathic pain or symptom control (e.g., antidepressants, anticonvulsants, steroids).
📌 Principles of the WHO Ladder:
By the mouth – Use oral medications whenever possible.
By the clock – Give at regular intervals (not PRN) to maintain pain control.
By the ladder – Start at the step that matches the patient's pain severity.
Tailor to the individual – Adjust for effectiveness and side effects.
Monitor and reassess – Pain control should be evaluated regularly.
When to use adjuvants:
Neuropathic pain (e.g., gabapentin, amitriptyline)
Bone pain (e.g., NSAIDs, bisphosphonates)
Inflammation (e.g., corticosteroids)